Location: Barangay Sta. Cruz Poblacion is located in the heart of San Luis, Pampanga, and serves as the poblacion or town center of the municipality. It is strategically positioned to serve as the administrative, commercial, and cultural hub of the area. Due to its central location, it is a key focal point for the residents and visitors of San Luis.
Coordinates: 15.0382° N, 120.7397° E (Approximate)
Elevation: Barangay Sta. Cruz Poblacion is situated at an elevation of about 10-15 meters (33-49 feet) above sea level. Given its urbanized setting, flooding can occur during heavy rains but is generally managed through local infrastructure improvements.
Land Area: 1.5 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest barangays in terms of land area, but it has a higher population density due to its urban nature. The barangay is a mixed-use area, with residential, commercial, and public facilities spread across its compact area.
Adjacent Barangays:
North: Barangay San Luis (San Luis)
East: Barangay Sta. Monica (San Luis)
South: Barangay San Agustin (San Luis)
West: Barangay San Juan (San Luis)
Population: According to the 2020 Census, Barangay Sta. Cruz Poblacion has a population of approximately 7,800 residents. This represents around 10-12% of the total population of San Luis, reflecting the dense urban environment of the barangay.
Households: As per the 2015 Census, the barangay has about 1,700 households, with an average household size of 4.6 members.
Age Distribution:
Largest age group: 5–9 years, indicating a significant youth population that may influence educational programs and services in the barangay.
Smallest age group: 80 years and above, as common in urbanized areas with fewer elderly residents.
Commerce and Retail: As the poblacion, Barangay Sta. Cruz Poblacion serves as the commercial hub of San Luis. It is home to numerous sari-sari stores, retail shops, restaurants, and local businesses that serve the daily needs of residents and visitors. The barangay's central location makes it a prime area for commerce, with a focus on small-scale retail, wholesale businesses, and food establishments.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): The barangay has seen the rise of several small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) due to its commercial importance. These businesses include food stalls, repair shops, and other service-oriented establishments.
Agriculture: While the barangay is urbanized, some nearby agricultural lands still contribute to the local economy. Farmers from surrounding areas bring their produce to the barangay's market, where they sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods.
Population: 7,800 (2020)
Land Area: 1.5 km²
Households: 1,700 (2015)
Average Household Size: 4.6
Main Occupations: Commerce (retail, services), Agriculture (limited), Small and Medium Enterprises
Main Roads: Accessible via key roads and thoroughfares in the town center, well-connected to neighboring barangays and municipalities.